Bahrain tightens preventive measures in animal husbandry

TDT | Manama

The Daily Tribune – www.newsofbahrain.com

Veterinarians and their assistants will have the authority to enter and inspect various animal farms and facilities in the Kingdom after notifying them, in line with measures to curb the spread of epidemiological and infectious diseases, said Works Minister.

Essam Khalaf, the Minister of Works, Municipalities Affairs and Urban Planning, issued an order yesterday giving competent authority full authorisation to perform preventive measures for infectious animal diseases.

The minister called on people to report any such incidents where animals are infected or suspecting an infection to authorities for further examinations. “Samples will be taken to ensure that the animals are not infected and ensuring necessary measures to combat and control epidemic diseases,” the minister added.

The move is as per Resolution No. (189) of 2021 for improving livestock productivity and enhancing food safety. The law also calls for a ban on slaughtering, handling, transporting or trading animals suspected of having an infection or showing symptoms of illness or fatigue and holding exhibitions.

The minister said the Animal Control Departments at the Works Ministry have the right to run vaccination campaigns against various diseases whenever the need arises. “The animal owner should also respond and allow authorised personnel to perform their duties,” added the minister.

Besides intimating authorities of the situation, animal owners should isolate sick animals from healthy animals and help to examine, collect samples, and label animals.